Kava ... the History and Cultural Uses of Piper methysticum

Kava is the ritual drink, sacrament and entheogen common to all three of the Pacific ethnogeographic groups: Melanesia, Micronesia and, of course, here in Polynesia. The shrub, in the pepper family is believed to have evolved (or been domesticated) on the islands of Vanuatu, and the plant has been cultivated for approx. 3,000 years. It is primarily known for its mild euphoriant and sedative effects, although there are approximately 120 cultivars, and the effects vary--depending on both the cultivar an the consumer.

A common legend traces Kava to a young girl of that name, who was sacrificed to feed the Tu'i Tonga (spiritual king of Tonga). From her grave emerged both the kava plant (Piper methysticum) and the sugar cane. Kava plays a different role in different island cultures, but is almost universally used for ceremonial greetings when a visitor arrives or a meeting begins.

Different cultivars have different effects--including the "war kava" employed by certain tribes. When one tribe (or island) decides to engage in battle with another, the two are expected to meet in a last ditch effort to avoid coinflict. At this meeting, they all drink the war kava which, it is felt, will give the participants a deeper insight--and hopefully help them find a peaceful resolution.

Kava's effects depend on the parts of the plant used, as it has wide array of chemicals--some psychoactive and others potentially toxic, but they are not equally distributed throughout the shrub. Traditionally, the roots of the plant were pulverized and mixed with water, coconut milk and/or saliva. Ceremonies were held on a variety of occasions, although consumption was historically restricted to men. Today, it is gaining renewed popularity as a social drink, and people may go to kava bars to hang out and drink the beverage with friends of either sex.

Join us on Sunday, June 4th, for a comprehensive look at the history, cultural uses varying among island groups, medicinal and recreational potential and potential risks associated with the use of this important plant. Kava samples and treats will be provided!

NOTE: we will be trying a new meeting location for this meeting. Please see location and instructions for access below. Questions or problems, please call or text Don at 719-660-9957.